1979 Peugeot 304 vs. 1988 Peugeot 505
To start off, 1988 Peugeot 505 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Peugeot 505 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Peugeot 505 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Peugeot 505 should accelerate faster than 1979 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Peugeot 505 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1979 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Peugeot 505 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Peugeot 505. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Peugeot 304, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Peugeot 505 (144 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 Peugeot 505 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Peugeot 304 | 1988 Peugeot 505 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Peugeot |
| Model | 304 | 505 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
